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Xanit Hospital Internacional is a modern private hospital located in the suburbs of Malaga, Spain. The hospital is modern (opened in 2005), and the staff include over 200 specialists in all medical specialties.

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Cardiac centers in Malaga (Page 1 of 1)

About Defibrillator Implant

This information is intended for general information only and should not be considered as medical advice on the part of Health-Tourism.com. Any decision on medical treatments, after-care or recovery should be done solely upon proper consultation and advice of a qualified physician.

What is a Defibrillator Implant?
A Defibrillator Implant is a small electronic instrument that continually checks your heart rhythm. If it notices an abnormal heart rhythm, it reacts by delivering energy to the heart muscle. This in turn causes the heart to return to its normal rhythm again. There are a number of ways the device can be implanted. These include incisions on your breastbone and collarbone. For other heart problems, it could be the case that a defibrillator implant takes place during open heart surgery.

Where is the Defibrillator Implant performed?
Normally the defibrillator implant procedure is performed in a special room in the Electrophysiology Lab.

Is it possible to eat before the procedure?
It is not allowed to drink, eat or chew on anything after 12 midnight before your procedure. This would include drinking water, chewing gum or sucking sweets.

How long does the Defibrillator Implant last?
Generally, the defibrillator implant will last between 3 to 6 years. During your follow-up appointments at the clinic, the defibrillator implant will be closely monitored to analyse when the device needs to be replaced.

Duration of procedure/surgery : The procedure could last between 2 to 4 hours.

Days admitted : Usually, hospital recovery time is between 3 to 5 days. However, this can be shorter depending on the technique used.

Anesthesia : Local anesthesia.

Recovery : Once you are discharged from the hospital, a fast recovery can be expected. It is advisable not to lift any heavy objects, and strenuous exercise is to be avoided. Taking a shower for the first 5 days is to be avoided.

Risks : Risks associated with a defibrillator implant are very rare. However, risks involved in the actual procedure to implant the device include:
- Bleeding around your heart which could cause death
- An allergic reaction to medication used to implant the device
- Bruising, swelling or even bleeding in the area of the implant
- Infection
- Damage to the vein that is connected up to the implant

After care : You will be given an ID card that will detail all the information about the device including the name of the doctor who implanted it. It is essential that you carry this card with you at all times in case of a medical emergency.
Approximately, 6 weeks after your procedure, a follow-up appointment will be scheduled. These will be scheduled at regular intervals, to check up on the performance of the defibrillator implant. The check-up will normally last between 15-30 minutes each time.